Understanding Your Cycle: The Key to Understanding Yourself

Every woman’s body is designed with an incredible rhythm, a natural cycle that tells a story about your hormones, energy, emotions, and overall health. The monthly cycle is connected to the phases of the moon which are connected to the four seasons of the year.

Each week in a 28 day cycle in like a season in a year.

The first week, the menstrual phase is like winter and is a reset. Hormones are at their lowest and the body is shedding the previous cycle. Energy is naturally lower, and the system benefits from rest, warmth, and simplicity. This week supports slowing down and letting go rather than pushing forward.

The second week, the follicular phase is like spring and is a build up. Estrogen begins to rise, bringing clearer thinking and renewed motivation. This is a good time for planning, learning, and starting new ideas without pressure.

The third week, the Ovulation is the peak which is summer. Estrogen is highest and energy is more outward. Many women feel more confident, social, and expressive. This phase supports communication, connection, and decision making.

The fourth week, or Luteal phase is integration. Progesterone rises and sensitivity increases. This week highlights what’s working and what isn’t, making it a powerful time for boundaries, refinement, and honest self assessment.

During the fertile years of 13 - 51 a woman’s energy is fluctuating with her body. Many natural practitioners have a negative attitude towards birth control, but I see it as a way to work with what a woman wants to achieve in herself and her life. In Integrative nutrition we embrace what western medicine offers and work with them as well as the natural methods of reproductive health.

The key is that understanding and accepting a woman’s fluctuation means she she can accept herself and how Hashem created her and work within this beautiful system.